Rishikesh – Image Credit: neetesh (Flickr)
Rishikesh is a spiritual holiday destination blessed with religious magnificence. Rishikesh is a very popular destination for pilgrims as well as adventure enthusiasts. It is situated at an altitude of 1360 m above sea level. Adventure tourism in Rishikesh is like religion to many thrill seekers. With the white waters of the River Ganga flowing through the city Rishikesh is ultimate hub for adventure activities. A vacation with adventure sport in mind can turn out to be boon in Rishikesh. A variety of adventure activities can be enjoyed while travelling to Rishikesh, including white water rafting, hot water ballooning, cliff jumping, waterfall trekking etc.
Some of the adventure activities to do in Rishikesh are:
Bungee Jumping
Imagine a rubber chord tied to your ankle and you are floating in mid-air talking to the constantly whispering wind. Imagine the excitement being built in your body and soul as you go down vertically like an arrow and swish up like a missile! Yeah, that’s the thrill of bungee jumping- one take on it and you will feel like conquering the entire world.
Rafting
River rafting in Rishikesh is a must to do for anyone who decides to take a trip to this awesome place. It is a thrilling and unbeatable experience which lets the visitor connect to the elements of nature in a distinct manner! The Ganga near Shivpuri (14 KM from Rishikesh), also known as the water capital of India, offers some amazing water sport activities including rafting. No doubt Rishikesh has achieved the most sought after white water rafting capital title of India, with the mighty Ganges presenting the adventurous and heart pumping experience for the mighty hearted visitors.
Body Surfing
Body surfing is a very interesting activity where the skill of riding a wave without using any type of device is called body surfing. Any kind of surf board or body board is not required in this activity. It is seen that, body surfers use a pair of uniquely made swim-fins. A help of some other accessories can also be taken to uplift the riding experience. A person from any age group can indulge in this exciting activity. It is considered as one of the topmost activities in Rishikesh. There are expert surfers who will help and guide you about this sport.
Cliff Jumping
While holidaying in Rishikesh if you want challenge your nerves you can go for cliff diving or cliff jumping. It is said that this sport was born on the Hawaiian Island of Lana in 1770. Later the sport found its way around the world. While taking part in this sport you must have to follow certain guidelines. Safety of self and the team should be the primary concern. In this sport, you climb up a rock to reach the jumping platform, from where you plunge into the water below. The plunge is normally taken from a height of 30-40 ft above water surface. The free fall time spans just 3 seconds. A guide team of expert instructors help you out, while you enjoy the sensational thrill of cliff jumping.
Rock Climbing
The picturesque Shivalik Himalayas in Rishikesh hosts some of the most magnificent cliffs. It is a very interesting activity to enjoy by every age group. This way you can challenge your strength and capacity of stamina against the cliffs. You can pick from a short trip and an expedition according to your comfort. There are customary introductory sessions by experienced climbers that will help you grasp the basic techniques of climbing rocks. A strong mind and will power is required to enjoy this exciting and thrilling activity.
Rappelling
Rappelling is the activity where you climb down from a rock. This sport is done by relying completely on the equipment used for rappelling. This activity is very fast compared to the climbing up process. Your full body becomes light weight while climbing down. Proper safety measures and team work is required to fulfil this task. Rishikesh is known as one of the best places for rock climbing and rappelling. Equipment needed while rappelling down a cliff are athletic tapes, climbing gear, harness, helmets, ropes and shoes. The rappel device should be attached to both the rope and th harness.
Kayaking
Rishikesh is becoming popular for its kayaking activities. In this adventure activity the participant uses a Kayak to paddle across the waterway. According to your comfort you can pick from a Kayaking expedition or an extended trip across the Ganges. The adventure becomes thrilling when it is enjoyed on a white water river. Kayaking in Rishikesh comes with its own characteristics. A trip to Rishikesh is incomplete, if you miss to take part in Kayaking activity. A life jacket can turn out to be life saver. Do not forget to pack your safety gears.
Paintball
This is a very unique and popular adventure sports in Rishikesh. It is an improvised version of peek-a-boo. It requires a lot of focus, guts and speed along with accurate strategies to outdo the opponent. Completely harmless this live game is designed to give the players a live combat feel much unlike the Xbox virtual world.
Manoj Roy is working with Majestic Tour India as a freelance writer. He is a writer, traveller and an adventure enthusiast. He writes articles based on his travelling experiences.
